Binge-watching is now one of the most popular pastimes. After a hard day’s work, relaxing with a binge-worthy TV show is a great way to lose yourself and forget about the outside world. If only for a brief period. There are many excellent quality entertainment sources such as Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and Hulu, but Netflix tops them all. While Amazon Prime has the most searches per month, Netflix is the most popular. Definitely, it has the best shows, a better list of movies, and a superior operating system.
Currently, Netflix tops the subscriber list at over 200 million active accounts. The platform has grown from a relatively obscure, online movie rental service that put Blockbuster out of business after they passed on a partnership deal, to massive streaming platform. Now Netflix makes its own movies and shows, with Bridgerton, The Crown, and House of Cards among some of the most-watched ever made.
You can give Netflix and yourself the respect you both deserve by making a quality entertainment system. Before you start, though, there are some things you need to be aware of:
- Quality Internet Speed
- Mind-Blowing Audio
- Even Better Visuals
- Comfortable Seating
- Proper Arrangement
As it is an online service, internet speed is crucial for advanced features. Audio is often overlooked but will really enhance your experience. Image quality is what most people go for, but not just any TV will do. You need to be comfy when watching Netflix for long periods to not get a numb bum. You may not be aware that setting up the viewing area can affect how you perceive it.
Quality Internet Speed
Almost everything but the kitchen sink requires an internet connection these days. Actually, there are kitchen sinks that you can connect to your phone. For example, Netflix is an online streaming service, and as such, it needs a good internet connection to function. Some people overlook this, but it is essential to use some of the platform’s advanced features. Whether it’s built into your TV, via Firestick, or with a Sky subscription, the requirements are always the same.
Netflix comes with advanced features that need fast internet. First of all, streaming over Wi-Fi for your primary Netflix device isn’t adequate. Wi-Fi shares connection speed and is therefore subject to slowing down if multiple users are on the network. Connect your primary Netflix device to your router using an ethernet cable for the best results. This ensures you will get full speed. Features like 4K streaming, HDR, and live previews require a connection of at least 25Mbps. Fortunately, most providers offer this speed as standard these days.
Mind-Blowing Audio
A good sound setup is an often overlooked aspect of setting up an entertainment system. Most people focus mainly on visuals but some people choose to use their expensive headphones over a TV’s audio output. Still, you are at risk of developing tinnitus with prolonged exposure to loud sounds this way. Good external audio equipment will take your configuration from good enough to mind-blowing and ease your ears. And the good news is that this doesn’t cost the Earth.
A good soundbar can be purchased for less than $100, and even the cheaper ones are a vast improvement over the poor sound output of almost every TV – even high-end ones. Most soundbars also include HDMI connections for high-definition audio. Alternatively, if you have compatible equipment, Netflix also supports 5.1 Dolby Atmos enhanced audio for select titles, including most new movies and TV shows.
Even Better Visuals
Of course, when watching movies and TV shows that you love, you will probably be looking for the best image quality available. Netflix supports 4K and HDR. For the best experience, 4K and HDR together is by far the best option. However, you need to be aware that not all 4K TVs are HDR compatible, and the extra cost for an HDR TV can be significant. However, there are always deals available, and you can get a 42″ 4K HDR TV for around $450. LG is an excellent manufacturer of relatively cheap enhanced TVs that match the quality of Samsung and Sony.
The reasons for using a 4K HDR TV are simple; it just looks incredible. HDR renders images at multiple exposures and then overlays them. This allows a rendered image to be displayed at a full-color range that a standard, one-pass render cannot do. The difference between HD and 4K is also immediately noticeable. However, not all TVs output good quality 4K, so you should be careful about buying a 4K TV at a meager price from an unknown manufacturer.
Comfortable Seating
For all the watching you are about to do, you are going to need to park your butt in a comfy place. If you have ever binge-watched an entire season in one sitting, then you will be aware of the problems that can arise. A numb bum, an 80-year-old spine, and a stiff neck are all common symptoms of the sedentary TV fanatic. If this applies to you, then you definitely need to upgrade your viewing space.
First, most couches just don’t cut it. While sofas are designed to sit for extended periods, they aren’t intended for the eventual slouch position at around episode 3. Your butt becomes restless, your neck begins to hurt as it rests on the stiff arm, and you find yourself constantly shifting positions. You need memory foam.
Memory foam TV pillows are fantastic at providing comfort and keeping you in a safe position. These supremely comfy cushions are designed to fit around your body and provide support while you sit up to watch TV. Memory foam couch toppers are also available if you need to lie down for your watching. Still, these need to be accompanied by various pillows and cushions for supporting your head, neck, and shoulders.
Proper Arrangement
Many people aren’t aware that there is a trick to watching TV. The viewing angle, the height of the TV, and the distance between the TV and the viewer are essential for an optimal viewing experience. Some TVs aren’t capable of providing a good display when viewed at an angle. It is, therefore, necessary that you face the TV directly. This includes the height of your TV. Your TV should be placed at your eye level, so you don’t have to look up or down to view it. This also helps with comfort.
Something that is often overlooked is the distance between the TV and the viewer. The size of the TV dictates how far away you should be for the best viewing. If you are too close, you could strain your eyes, and the screen’s individual pixels will also be noticeable. A good rule of thumb is to sit 1 and a half to 2 and half times the screen size from the device. So for a standard 42″ TV, you should sit at least 63 inches away – or 5.25 feet.